Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino)
Plantago tubulosa
About Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino)
Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) (Plantago tubulosa) is a herb used in the Andean & Incan Medicine tradition to help with Wound Healing, Skin Health, Respiratory Issues, and UTI. The leaves are the part traditionally used, used both internally and topically.
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Tea / Infusion
- Steep 1–2 tsp of dried Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) in freshly boiled water for 5–10 minutes.
- Cover while steeping.
- Strain and drink.
Tincture
- Pack dried Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Topical / Poultice
- Mash fresh Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) or mix the powder with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply to the affected area for 20–30 minutes.
Infused Oil
- Fill a jar with dried Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino).
- Pour over a carrier oil until submerged.
- Leave for 4–6 weeks, then strain.
- Use topically or as a salve base.
Steam Inhalation
- Add 2–3 tbsp of Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) to a bowl of just-boiled water.
- Drape a towel over your head and inhale steam for 5–10 minutes.
Herbal Bath
- Brew 4–6 tbsp of Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) in 1 litre of hot water for 15 minutes, strain, and add to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20–30 minutes.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy & breastfeeding — insufficient safety data; consult your doctor
- Children under 12 — therapeutic dosage not established
- Significant kidney impairment — diuretic herbs may worsen renal function
Warnings
⚠️ Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established for most herbal remedies. Consult your midwife or doctor before use.
⚠️ Kidney Disease
Some diuretic herbs are contraindicated in those with kidney disease. Consult your doctor if you have impaired kidney function.
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
May have a diuretic effect
Watch for: Diuretic medications and lithium
Additive fluid loss can affect electrolyte balance and change how the body clears lithium.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Andes Mountains — Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile
Climate
High-altitude tropical
Habitat
Andean highlands (altiplano), cloud forests, and valley farmland of the Andes
🌿 To see Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino) growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
- Farmers markets with herb vendors
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Andean Plantain (Llantén Andino), look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.